Our Financial Background

The Pirate Castle relies heavily on voluntary donations to support our charitable work and enable us to run our community projects.

Although the hire of our building and services generates vital income towards our projects and operating costs (typically covering around 40% of our annual funding need), we simply could not function without the generous support we receive, both from our loyal volunteers who give their time, skills and energy to help run projects and the Trusts, Foundations, individuals and corporate sponsors whose grants and donations have helped keep us afloat for over 50 years.

We believe that nobody should face exclusion due to financial disadvantage or disability. More than opening up the canal as a recreational resource for all to enjoy, our stimulating and inclusive projects seek to narrow the outcomes gap by giving all sections of the community equal chance to participate in activities and training initiatives that may otherwise be beyond their financial or physical means.

Our subsidised Canoeing and Kayaking Club and other affordable outdoor education activities for children and young people

Inclusive School Holiday Schemes, offering heavily subsidised water and land-based activities, training and accreditation opportunities for young people aged 8-16 throughout the Spring, Easter, Summer and Autumn school holidays

Community Centre – accessible, affordable community space for activities, projects and events

Last year, over 3,000 young people benefited from our inclusive holiday schemes and outdoor activity programmes. Our canal boats were also busy, with 2,456 people accessing our community projects. 600 people (including 148 wheelchair users) took to the water through the ‘Rosedale’ Scheme and over 65% of our beneficiaries and volunteers achieved in-house and formal accreditations, reflecting their experiences with us.

Can you help us make a difference?

Do you know of any charitable trusts and foundations who may be interested in supporting our work?

Do you know somebody who is looking to leave a positive mark on society?

Do you work for a company or business that's looking for a local community charity to sponsor?

Do you have any fundraising ideas?

If so, we'd love to hear from you!

The Pirate Castle is a registered charity (number 1138787) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales (number 7370167).